We would like to say a big thank you to the community of District 196 for supporting The Emma Fund Fest that was held Dec. 7 at Diamond Path Elementary.

Emma is a second grader at Diamond Path. Emma was admitted into the ICU at Children’s on Oct. 19 with E-coli; unfortunately, the type of E-coli that Emma has is only made worse with antibiotics. Only days after being admitted, Emma developed Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome. Due to the HUS, Emma suffered kidney failure and was on dialysis. Read Emma's journey on CaringBridge. Emma walked out of the hospital on Nov. 14 and is on the road to recovery.

If it was not for our volunteers and Diamond Path Elementary School, we would not have been able to pull this off. We had over 100 silent auction and raffle items, bake sale, lunch, and games for the kids.

All the businesses in Dakota Country have supported this local event and we thank you too!

I must say the community has come together to pay it forward for a deserving family to help pay for medical bills and glad Emma was there to enjoy it.

Thanks to all as over $6,000 was collected at Wells Fargo for Emma Heidish Fund.